Pursuing a dream in space exploration is no small feat.
For a young Filipina in STEM, it takes passion, grit, and a supportive community. Meet Mary Audrey Amorao—a student from UP Los Baños who is on the verge of a historic breakthrough.
NASA Girl Who Does It All
Audrey is a proud alumna of the NASA Open Science Cohort. Reflecting on her journey three months later, she expressed deep gratitude for the program.
Specifically, it broadened her understanding of open science, research transparency, and collaboration. This experience reinforced her core belief: science is about sharing knowledge so others can build on it.
Although it took her a well-deserved rest, she remains eager to return to her passion and contribute to the scientific community.
On the Brink Of A Historic Mission
Fast forward to now, Audrey is just one step away from joining the Philippine Space Agency’s pioneering analog astronaut initiative, Train Like an Astronaut: Analog Habitat Waypoint (ANAHAW).
Out of 100 applicants nationwide, she excelled in lectures, exams, and assessments. As a result, she became one of the top 9 candidates competing for 8 final habitat spots.
However, her medical workup revealed an unexpected chest X-ray finding. She now needs extra lab tests and a contrast chest CT scan—primarily to ensure crew safety in close quarters.
Community Support For A Space Girl’s Dream
To make this dream a reality, Audrey must secure final medical clearance by July 30.
Unfortunately, the tests cost roughly ₱20,000, which is an expense she cannot afford on short notice. Therefore, she is taking a brave leap of faith. She is opening up about the financial hurdles young Filipinas face in STEM and asking the public for help.
As she quotes,
I’m sharing this because I need support, AND I want to be honest about the challenges that sometimes come with pursuing a goal of a young Filipina in space”
Ultimately, joining ANAHAW allows her to help build the foundation for Philippine human spaceflight research. She is deeply thankful for every share and contribution.
Audrey’s journey is more than a personal milestone. It is a leap forward for Philippine space research and an inspiration for future scientists.
Every share and donation brings her closer to completing her medical clearance and entering the ANAHAW habitat. By rallying behind her today, we can help launch the next generation of Filipina space pioneers.
Connect with Mary Audrey on Facebook for her bank details.
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